Rev. Nikki Baker

She and her husband, Matt are high school sweethearts, graduating from Valley View High School in Germantown, Ohio. They have been married for thirty years. They are parents to John (23) and Grace (20). John is a student at Ohio University, majoring in Fine Arts. Grace is a senior at Kent State and is majoring in American Sign Language. Their golden doodle puppy, Smidgen “Smidgie” is a new addition to the family and is looking forward to being Pastor Nikki’s sidekick at church and around town. Nikki is a nature-nerd, a birdwatcher, and a people-lover. Her favorite seasons are fall and spring—prime times for “bird migration.” She enjoys reading, spending time with family, hiking, and playing board games. Her greatest joys are walking with others as they explore their faith, learning and growing in community, and sharing the good news of God’s relentless grace and deep compassion for all people.

(740) 653-3330, ext. 1001

nikkibaker@love-first.org

Pastor Kathleen was ordained an elder in the United Methodist Church in 1999. She earned her B.A. in speech-communications and broadcasting from Otterbein College and her M. Div. from Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University. Kathleen has served at a variety of churches in West Ohio, from small to large, rural to urban and brings a diversity of experience. She enjoys helping people find their ministry niche, discipleship and serves as spiritual director. She is married to Craig, and they have three children. Their oldest is James, recently returned to Ohio after serving in the U.S. Navy. Their middle child, Elizabeth, is a college student, and their youngest, Lila is still at home. Pastor Kathleen enjoys reading, photography, travel, playing the piano, and singing. Her favorite Bible verse is Proverbs 3:5-6

⁵ Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
    and do not lean on your own understanding.
⁶ In all your ways acknowledge him,
    and he will make straight your paths.